Which device is used to view the inner structures of the eye?

• A. View inner structures of eye
• B. Inspect ear canal
• C. Check nasal passages
• D. Inspect skin lesions

Answer: (A)

Viewing the inner structures of the eye, such as the retina and optic nerve, requires an instrument designed for examining the fundus. An ophthalmoscope lets you shine light into the pupil and inspect these internal areas. There are two common methods: direct ophthalmoscopy, which provides a magnified view of a small area, and indirect ophthalmoscopy, which uses a lens to reveal a larger field of view. This is distinct from instruments used for other regions—an otoscope examines the ear canal, a nasal speculum or rhinoscope checks nasal passages, and a dermatoscope is used for skin lesions. So the device for viewing the eye’s internal structures is the ophthalmoscope.